Moon Over Sigsbee | Key West, FL

Lunch on Mt. Charleston

Located about 30 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Mt. Charleston is one of my favorite places to visit. Having shot an event the previous night that was full of smoke and mayhem, I wanted to enjoy some fresh air. So on this Sunday morning I asked my girlfriend if she wanted to have breakfast at the Mt. Charleston Lodge. Needless to say, she was dressed before I finished the sentence. We didn't make breakfast, but we did enjoy a fabulous lunch amidst the crisp mountain air. What a beautiful place!

On the road to Mt. Charleston, it's the one with the snow cap! Yes, I said that nasty four letter word, S-N-O-W. In winter, Las Vegans drive up here and bring snow back to the valley for their kids. Can you imagine that...having been born and raised in Chicago, I've had my share of snow and I must say I don't miss it at all, but this was a very nice view.

On the way to lodge, you'll happen upon Cathedral Rock Trail. I'm looking forward to hiking this one soon.

After reaching our destination we dined on one the best Ruben sandwiches I've ever had while overlooking the serene mountain-side.

After lunch we headed over to the northern side of the mountain and came upon the Desert View Trail. One word, stunning. If you're ever around these parts, it's a must see. We ended our outting with a nice cruise down the northside of the canyon which was quite enjoyable. Here are a couple more pics from the day. 

all the best,

~ Oliphant

These old water towers are on the road to the mountain. I thought the textures were awesome and I couldn't wait to convert my RAW file to Black & White.

...and I'll close with my favorite shot of the day, "2 Chairs."

~ smile ~

a Lake Mead Cruise: Boulder City, NV

A gift arrived in the mail from my girlfriend's father in the form of two tickets to a breakfast cruise on Lake Mead. I gotta tell you, it was one of the best times I've ever had in 106 degree temperature. Here are a few pics from the day.

The Desert Princess. Three levels of bliss....

Note to photogs, the pic above was shot with a 24-105mm, set at 24mm to achieve the barrel (bend in the image) effect. This is an easy fix in photoshop under lens correction, but I think the effect makes the image look more dynamic. Again, art is subjective, so if works for you, work it.

Bliss....

Memorial Day 2010...

....my girlfriend and I headed across the desert to Laughlin, NV and Bullhead City, AZ. We found this spot in Bullhead City right off Fourth St. which was butted up against the Colorado River. If you're ever in the area make sure you check out this little oasis in the desert, we had a blast! Hope you and yours enjoyed the day too!

Note: I know this post comes a bit late but I was inspired by Matthew Jordan Smith's blog and Shauna Harris' blogging article in this months Rangefinder, so I'll be making it my business to post early and often. Thanks Matthew & Shauna!

best,
~ Oliphant